What to Serve with Gumbo – 15 Delicious Pairings

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Whether you’re making a seafood gumbo, chicken gumbo, or a hearty sausage gumbo, this traditional stew from South Louisiana is a national treasure and a Mardi Gras favorite.

Now you just need to decide what to serve with gumbo for a complete meal. I’ve got 15 delicious options that will take your gumbo meal from good to unforgettable.

Whether you’re enjoying authentic New Orleans gumbo for the first time or it’s a family dinner tradition, these side dishes are sure to enhance the experience. 

1. White Rice

A classic choice and the perfect base for soaking up all the rich flavors of your gumbo. Hot cooked rice is the most traditional thing that’s served with this popular dish.

2. Sweet Corn Maque Choux

This traditional Cajun dish features sweet corn sautéed with bell peppers, onions, and Creole spices, creating a colorful and flavorful side dish that pairs wonderfully with your favorite gumbo recipe.

3. Fried Green Tomatoes

Crispy slices of tangy green tomatoes, breaded and fried to perfection, offer a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of your main dish.

4. Garlic Bread

A crusty French bread slathered with garlic butter is the perfect side for dipping into your gumbo stew. This is one of those perfect side dishes for dipping in a bowl of gumbo. 

5. Black Eyed Peas

Add even more heartiness to your meal with a serving a perfectly seasoned and tender black-eyed peas. This is a perfect pairing for so many Southern meals.

6. Hush Puppies

These deep-fried cornmeal fritters are a classic side of Cajun country and add a satisfying crunch to your meal.

7. Fried Okra

Crispy, crunchy, and oh-so-delicious, fried okra brings a taste of the South to your table. Add some hot sauce for an even more authentic Louisiana flavor. 

8. Cauliflower Rice

For a low-carb option, serve your gumbo with cauliflower rice, which absorbs the flavors just like traditional white rice. It’s a great side for spicy gumbo if you want to keep it on the healthier side.

9. Crab Cakes

Elevate your gumbo experience with savory crab cakes, bursting with seafood flavor.

10. Potato Salad

A side of potato salad is the perfect cool and creamy side dish that helps cool off the spice of cajun gumbo. We like our deviled egg potato salad with chopped hard boiled eggs and a topping of paprika or Old Bay seasoning!

11. Red Beans and Rice

A classic Creole dish that pairs perfectly with gumbo, featuring tender red beans cooked with Cajun seasoning and served over fluffy white rice for a delicious final product that’s filling and satisfying.

12. Cornbread

Whip up a batch of golden, crumbly cornbread to accompany your authentic gumbo for a taste of Southern comfort and a hearty dish.

13. Collard Greens

Sautéed collard greens seasoned with garlic, onions, and a hint of spice provide a nutritious and flavorful side dish for your Cajun feast.

14. Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese is a great side dish that adds a comforting touch of indulgence to your gumbo meal.

15. Sweet Potato Pie

Finish off your meal right! Embrace the sweet flavors of the South with a slice of sweet potato pie, a delightful dessert that complements the earthy flavor of gumbo. This old-fashioned recipe starts with fresh sweet potatoes and is surprisingly easy.